Latin Name: Mammillaria elongata Trade Name: nipple cactus Priced Each: $4.00 (4-inch) Estimate Delivery: November 26. 2008 size="1">0102030405060708091011121314151617181920212223242526272829303132333435363738394041424344454647484950

The genus Mammillaria is one of the largest in the cactus family, with currently 171 known species and varieties recognized. The first was described by Carolus Linnaeus as Cactus mammillaris in 1753, deriving name from Latin mammilla = nipple, referring to tubercules that are one of the plant specific features. In 1812, the cactus specialist Adrian Haworth described the genus Mammillaria to contain this and related species.

The distinctive feature of the genus is the specific development of an areole, that is split into two clearly separated parts, one occurring at the tubercules apex, the other at its base.

Mammillarias have extremely variable spination from specie to specie, and attractive flowers making them specifically collectable for cactus hobbyists. Mammillaria plants are considered easy in cultivation, though some species are among the hardest cacti to grow.

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Native Habitat: Mexico

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USDA Plant Hardiness: 10a to 11
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